Premier showcases ‘New Look’ Rio; Multijet model coming by April

Premier showcased their next generation Rio at the 2012 Auto Expo. The Rio is a compact SUV that the company launched in 2011 to tap the entry level SUV segment. The product did not work due to number of factors and the company has taken a lesson from all them. The ‘New Look’ Rio is essentially a Nomad II from Zotye with changes such as:

• Curvy Headlamps
• An integrated Grill
• A rear spoiler
• Beige upholstery

Currently the Rio is available with a 1.2L petrol engine with 77 bhp. Premier promises 15 km/l of fuel efficiency.  It is also available with a 1.5L diesel engine delivering 65bhp and 16 km/L.

The diesel engine that is available on the Rio is a very old technology hence the company is testing a 1.3L Multijet engine for more refinement. Premier said the Multijet Rio will be available by April 2012.

It is available in Red, White, Silver and Black. All models come with:

• Power steering
• Front power windows
• Electrically operated mirrors
• Central locking
• CD/MP3 Player

Higher models come with ABS, keyless entry and alloy wheels

Prices of the Rio start from 4.7 lakhs right up to 6.35 lakhs (ex-showroom Pune)

Premier Rio facelift Image Slideshow

In case you can't see the slideshow above, head over to the Premier Rio Flickr page for images.